Ulster have announced the signings of Paul Emerick and Adam D'Arcy just hours before the start of the new Magners League season.

Former Newport Gwent Dragons back Emerick has put pen to paper on a three-month contract to provide cover for Ireland wing Andrew Trimble, who is expected to be out of action until the end of November with a finger injury. Emerick, a United States international, will arrive in Belfast next week.

Australian fullback D'Arcy, meanwhile, has signed a one-year deal with the province after impressing during a recent trial.